“ I like the different colours of the flowers. Also, I like the bridge because it doesn’ t get muddy or slippery.”- Yara, Grade 2
NATURE & Play
SUSAN HUTCHISON GARDEN: WHERE PLANTS AND ANIMALS CAN TALK
As the Director, Junior School from 1996 to 2020, Susan Hutchison shared her passion for play, her appreciation of the outdoors, and a fondness for stories set in a time when plants and animals could talk. She was an advocate for learning and playing outdoors— ensuring students had generous time outside across our beautiful green campus every day, rain or shine.
We are thrilled to complete a garden in her name, where girls can play, as a tribute to her dedication and commitment.
“ I am deeply honoured to be remembered at Crofton House for the many stories I shared with the Junior School students in assemblies. This whimsical garden reflects a timeless memory of the playful nature of those stories, many of which I started with the phrase: A very long time ago when plants and animals could talk,” Mrs Hutchison said.“ It reflects one of my core values related to the growth and well-being of young people: unstructured free time and play, especially in nature, leads to successful learning and a healthy overall childhood.”
“ I will always picture young CHS students playing in such a special space, learning to love and care for the outdoors on this beautiful campus. I am very grateful to everyone who made this garden possible.”
Scan the QR code to read an article on the creation of this garden written by Evan, Naomi and Joyce, Grade 6 students, originally written for the Junior School’ s Crofton Chronicle newspaper.
37